After a car accident, it’s easy to focus on visible injuries like bruises, whiplash, or back pain—but one of the most dangerous injuries is the one you can’t see: a concussion. At Elite Chiropractic Rehab & Wellness in Walnut Creek, we frequently see patients who delayed care after a collision, unaware they had suffered a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI). The reality is, even a “minor” concussion can lead to major problems if left untreated.
What Is a Concussion?
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head—or even a sudden shaking motion of the brain inside the skull, like what happens during whiplash. You don’t have to hit your head to get a concussion. The force from a car accident alone is often enough.
Common Signs of a Concussion After an Accident:
- Headache or pressure in the head
- Dizziness or balance problems
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Brain fog or trouble concentrating
- Memory issues or confusion
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Mood swings or irritability
Symptoms may show up immediately, or be delayed by hours or even days. That’s why getting checked after an accident is so important.
Serious Underlying Conditions Linked to Untreated Concussions
Ignoring a concussion increases your risk of developing more serious or long-term conditions, including:
1. Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS)
PCS occurs when concussion symptoms persist for weeks or months. Patients may experience chronic headaches, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and mental fog, which can significantly impact work, school, and daily life.
2. Cervicogenic Headaches
In some cases, head pain isn’t solely from brain trauma—it may be referred from injuries in the neck and upper spine, often overlooked in the ER. These headaches can be worsened by spinal misalignments and muscle tension after an accident.
3. Vestibular Dysfunction
If your inner ear system is disrupted from a concussion or whiplash, you may experience balance issues, vertigo, and dizziness. This is especially common when brain and neck trauma go unaddressed.
4. Cognitive Decline or Emotional Changes
Even a mild TBI can affect your ability to focus, recall information, or regulate emotions. Delaying care may lead to persistent brain fog, anxiety, or depression—especially if you’re dealing with pain or reduced sleep quality.
How Elite Chiropractic Can Help After a Concussion
While chiropractic care does not “treat” brain injuries directly, it plays a crucial role in supporting recovery after a concussion—especially if spinal or soft tissue injuries are contributing to ongoing symptoms.
Spinal Alignment and Nervous System Support
After an accident, misalignments in the neck (especially the upper cervical spine) can put pressure on nerves and impact blood flow to the brain. Gentle chiropractic adjustments help restore alignment, reduce inflammation, and improve neurological function.
Relief for Cervicogenic Headaches and Neck Pain
Many post-concussion symptoms are worsened by whiplash, muscle spasms, or nerve compression in the neck. Our hands-on therapies help relieve tension and improve mobility in the cervical spine.
Coordinated Care and Referrals When Needed
At Elite Chiropractic, we work with a network of neurologists, imaging centers, and personal injury attorneys in Walnut Creek. If advanced imaging or specialist care is needed, we’ll coordinate a comprehensive plan to ensure nothing is missed.
We Work on Lien for Auto Accident Cases
If your concussion is from a car accident, we work on lien—meaning you can receive care now, with no upfront cost, while your personal injury claim is being resolved. We’ll document everything thoroughly to support your legal or insurance case.
Don’t Wait—Get Evaluated Today
If you’ve been in a car accident—even if you didn’t hit your head—don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. A concussion can have serious long-term effects, and early intervention is the key to full recovery. At Elite Chiropractic Rehab & Wellness, we’re here to help Walnut Creek residents recover safely and naturally from auto injuries—head to toe.
